Chemically treated, rfid equipped mesh tire labels and methods of making and using the same for identification and tracking purposes during and post-tire manufacture

ABSTRACT

A chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label configured to be integrally incorporated within a vulcanized tire and to provide unique identifier(s) and/or other information about the vulcanized tire during and post tire vulcanization, the label comprising: a mesh face layer configured to be adhered to an outer surface of an unvulcanized tire; a mesh backing layer attached to the mesh face layer and adapted to be integrally incorporated in a vulcanized tire after subjecting a green tire to a vulcanization process; and an RFID device affixed between the mesh face and mesh backing layers, the RFID device that is configured to provide unique identifier(s) and/or other information upon being read with an RFID reader during and post tire vulcanization.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to mesh labels having barcodeand/or radio frequency identification (RFID) capabilities, and moreparticularly, to chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh labels that canbe applied on rubber-based articles (e.g., green tires) prior tovulcanization processes and that can maintain operability during theseprocesses as well as subsequent use of the vulcanized article.

BACKGROUND

Inventory control, quality control, monitoring manufacturing processes,and tracking items throughout the supply chain and during the lifetimeof the articles involves providing various identifiers on and/or in thearticles of interest at different times during manufacture andpost-manufacture of the articles. Typically, labels are applied toarticles (e.g., rubber-based articles such as tires) in which the labelscontain identifiers and/or other information that can be associated withthe article.

When manufacturing rubber-based articles (e.g., manufacturing tires),multiple identification labels are frequently used throughout themanufacturing process. However, labelling rubber-based articles (e.g.,tires) can be problematic, particularly if labelling occurs early in thetire manufacturing process prior to, for example, vulcanization, and/orquality tests. For example, during manufacture, green tires(unvulcanised tires) are subjected to harsh vulcanization process(es) inwhich the tire and/or tire components are molded together to form avulcanized tire. Vulcanization modifies the rubber-based composition byforming an extensive network of crosslinks within the rubber matrix,thereby significantly increasing the strength and durability of thearticle (vulcanized article/tire). Although numerous vulcanizationtechniques utilizing different curing systems (e.g., sulfur curingsystems and/or peroxide curing systems) are known, nearly allvulcanization techniques include the application of high pressure andelevated temperatures to the “green,” i.e., non-vulcanized, rubber-basedarticle to facilitate vulcanization reactions and processes resulting inthe vulcanized article (e.g., vulcanized tire).

In view of the above mentioned process conditions, adhesive-based labelsequipped with barcodes and/or RFID devices (e.g., FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b)showing a top view and bottom view of a barcode label 30 having abarcode 31 and an etched RFID antenna 31 embedded therein) have beendeveloped that can be applied to green rubber-based articles such astires, and some of which can relatively endure the high temperatures andpressures associated with vulcanization. However, these adhesive-basedlabels have problems. For example, these labels are often applied to theexterior of the tire to maintain operable performance, but due to theirexterior placement, these labels have much higher risk of not properlyadhering to the tire before, during, and post-vulcanization. In someinstances, these labels delaminate either during tire production and/orpost-tire production.

In the case of barcoded adhesive labels, barcodes are often damagedduring tire manufacture and/or during the tire's lifetime especiallywhen repeatedly exposed to various external forces and elements, thusrendering the barcode unreadable/unidentifiable. These adhesive barcodedlabels also disadvantageously suffer from “line of sight” limitationscoupled with frequent malfunctions, diminished readability, and/orcomplete unreadability over time.

To potentially overcome the above mentioned problems, additional RFIDdevices and labels equipped with these RFID devices have been developed.For example, FIG. 1 depicts one such more robust option with an RFIDdevice 10 having an RFID transponder 11 positioned in the center of thedevice along with coiled antennas 12, 13 attached to opposite sides ofthe transponder that extend away therefrom, which are configured totransmit information from the RFID device 10 to an RFID reader.

As shown in FIG. 1, the RFID transponder 11 is a large, rigidrectangular shaped structure and the coiled antennas 12, 13 are alsorigid, spring-like structure(s). The RFID device 10 shown in FIG. 1 isconfigured to be directly embedded into the layers of an unvulcanizedtire and to be integrally incorporated within the tire during thevulcanization process (via crosslinking occurring during vulcanization).However, use of the device 10 shown in FIG. 1 is often problematic bothduring and post-tire manufacture. To evidence this fact, one or bothcoiled antenna(s) 12, 13 often detach from the RFID device 10 during orpost-tire vulcanization, thus rendering the RFID device completelyinoperable and not capable of adequately transmitting information toand/or being adequately read by an RFID reader. When this occurs, theRFID device 10 disadvantageously becomes a useless, inoperable foreignbody within the tire serving no purpose once one or both antenna(s) 12,13 detach. Furthermore, the overall shape and rigidity of the RFIDdevice 10 shown in FIG. 1 can lead to microbubble and/or macrobubbleformation (and/or micro-warping or delamination) within the tire duringvulcanization further weakening overall tire integrity, contributing toquality control issues (e.g., warping and/or de-lamination), and, incertain instances, ultimately leading to discarding of the vulcanizedtire due to the quality control issues (associated with the presence ofthese microbubbles and/or macrobubbles).

In certain aspects and depending on the desired application, the RFIDdevice 10 of FIG. 1 may be encapsulated within a rubber patch 20 asshown, for example, in FIG. 2. However, this patch 20 has numerouslimitations. The patch 20 of FIG. 2 is specifically a post-cure (orpost-vulcanization) tire tracking solution that, in view of FIGS. 4(a)and 4(b), is applied to the exterior 401, 402 (FIGS. 4a and 4b ) orinterior sidewall 405, 406 (FIGS. 4a and 4b ) of the vulcanized tire400. Due to its placement, this patch 20 is regularly exposed to theelements (as previously mentioned above) as well as mechanicalstress(es) such as flexing and constant tire expansion/contraction, thusresulting in the tire patch 20 of FIG. 2 often exhibiting the sameproblems as those evidenced with the RFID device 10 of FIG. 1 (i.e.,antenna detachment and patch inoperability). Thus, in view of the aboveproblems, a need exists to provide a more robust tire label thatovercomes the above mentioned problems.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein are chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire labelsthat maintain operability during vulcanization and post-vulcanization ofa tire. These labels, and more particularly the RFID device positionedtherein, retain RFID performance/readability allowing these labels (andRF identifiers associated therewith) to be advantageously utilizedthroughout the tire manufacturing process, while in the supply chain,and throughout the tire's life. The durability of the RF module includedwithin the RFID device coupled with the dimensional stability of thebraided stainless steel antenna assists in maintaining the structuralintegrity of the entire inlay within the label to avoid degradation ofRFID performance during and post-vulcanization of the tire regardless ofthe many stress(es) encountered.

In addition to the robustness of the RFID device/inlay, the presentchemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire labels are distinguishedfrom prior art by the unique layers and order of materials that make upthe entire construct, which further aid in incorporating the labelswithin the tire during and post-vulcanization. The present labelsovercome the shortcomings of prior art and/or prior technologies byhaving, for example, no line of sight requirements/limitations, multipletires can be identified simultaneously within field of reading, thelabel is not visibly seen on the exterior of the tire; asset trackingwill occur without concern of human removal/intervention, and/or thesurvivability of the self-contained RFID module allows the tire orrubber article to be identified at a short read distance even afterextreme stress has been exerted on the tire (such as a catastrophic tirefailure and the longer read range performance of the RFID antenna hasbeen compromised.

Disclosed herein is a chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire labelconfigured to be integrally incorporated within a vulcanized tire and toprovide unique identifier(s) and/or other information about thevulcanized tire during and post tire vulcanization, the label includes amesh face layer configured to be adhered to an outer surface of anunvulcanized tire; a mesh backing layer attached to the mesh face layerand adapted to be integrally incorporated in a vulcanized tire aftersubjecting a green tire to a vulcanization process; and an RFID deviceaffixed between the mesh face and mesh backing layers, the RFID devicethat is configured to provide unique identifier(s) and/or otherinformation upon being read with an RFID reader during and post tirevulcanization.

In certain aspects and during vulcanization, the mesh face layer andmesh backing layers are each configured to pass and disperse greenrubber material from an unvulcanized tire therethrough such that thelabel is integrally bonded within the tire post-vulcanization.

In certain aspects, the mesh face layer and mesh backing layer areconfigured to homogeneously pass and disperse green rubber material froman unvulcanized tire through and around the label during vulcanizationto minimize and/or prevent microbubble and/or macrobubble formationduring tire vulcanization.

In certain aspects, at least one of the mesh face and mesh backinglayers is chemically treated on its outer surface(s) with afunctionalized latex to facilitate bonding (and/or to further minimizeand/or prevent microbubble and/or macrobubble formation) of the label toa tire during vulcanization.

In certain aspects, both the mesh face and mesh backing layers arechemically treated on its outer surface(s) (i.e., on all outer surfaces)with a functionalized latex to further facilitate bonding of the labelto a tire during vulcanization.

In certain aspects, the functionalized latex comprises reactive thiolgroups, reactive hydroxyl groups, reactive aldehyde groups, or anycombination thereon that facilitate crosslinking between a tire and themesh face layer and the mesh backing layer during vulcanization tointegrally incorporate the label within a vulcanized tire. In certainaspects, the functionalized latex comprises a reactive group(s) thatfacilitates covalent bonding between a tire and the mesh face layer andthe mesh backing layer during vulcanization to integrally incorporatethe label within a vulcanized tire.

In certain aspects, the functionalized latex preferably includesreactive aldehydes and is most preferably resorcinol formaldehyde latex.

In certain aspects, the both the mesh face and mesh backing layers areplanar and portions of each layer are adhered (e.g., permanentlyadhered) to one another.

In certain aspects, the mesh face layer comprises an upper surface and alower surface that are each coated with an adhesive. The adhesive iseither transparent or translucent.

In certain aspects, the adhesive on the upper surface of the mesh facelayer is configured to adhere the label to a tire outer surface (and/orany desired tire surface) pre-vulcanization and the adhesive on thelower surface of the mesh face layer adheres to the meshing backinglayer and affixes the RFID device therein. The adhesive is eithertransparent or translucent.

In certain aspects, wherein the adhesive is a continuous layercoated/applied on the upper surface of the mesh face layer and on thelower surface of the mesh face layer.

In certain aspects, each adhesive layer/coating ranges from 1.25thousands of an inch (mils) (0.03175 mm) to 2 mils (0.0508 mm) inthickness and is more preferably 1.45 mils (0.0368 mm) to 1.55 mils(0.03937 mm) in thickness In the most preferred aspects, each adhesivelayer/coating is about 1.5 mils (0.0381 mm) in thickness.

In certain aspects, wherein the adhesive disclosed herein preferablyincludes rubber latex and/or a rosin, more particularly, a rosin esterand/or rosin ester tackifier(e.g., a Snowtack® TackifierDispersion/resin) that readily adheres the label(s) to the unvulcanizedarticles (e.g., tires) disclosed herein.

In certain aspects, the RFID device comprises an RFID module and aflexible, conductive antenna extending from the RFID module. In certainaspects, the conductive antenna is a flexible, metal antenna extendingfrom the RFID module.

In certain aspects, the RFID module is configured with passive UHFcapabilities having an integrated circuit with a built-in antenna thatcan be read with an appropriate RFID reader and continuously maintainsoperability regardless of whether the flexible, conductive antenna(flexible, metal antenna) remains looped (inductively coupled) aroundthe RF Module during tire vulcanization and/or the life of the tire. Forexample, the RFID module can preferably be read in the “near field”range of 2 inches (5.08 cm) to 6 inches (15.24 cm) regardless of whetherthe flexible, conductive antenna (flexible, metal antenna) remainsinductively coupled to the RFID module.

In certain aspects, the flexible conductive antenna and/or flexiblemetal antenna boosts the overall read distance of the mesh labelsdisclosed herein. In certain aspects, the flexible, conductiveantenna(s) and flexible, metal antenna(s) comprises metal yarn(s) or ametal rope wrapped around/inductively coupled to the RFID module, themetal yarn(s) or metal rope having an overall linear length ranging from3.5 inches (8.89 cm) to 7.5 inches (19.05 cm); 5 inches (12.7 cm) to 7inches 17.78 cm) and diameter ranging from 0.25 mm to 0.45, and morepreferably from 0.29 mm to 0.41mm. The overall read range of the abovementioned antenna(s) having a linear length/linear confirmation if from2.5 feet (0.76 m) to 15 feet (4.57 m), from 4 feet (1.21 m) to 12 feet(3.67 m), and from 6 feet (1.82 m) to 10 feet (3.048 m). The read rangemay be tuned/varied as desired by varying overall antenna length bylooping/wrapping/folding the antenna to reduce overall antenna lengthalong the longitudinal axis of the label.

In certain aspects, the flexible conductive antenna(s)_and the flexible,metal antenna(s) are configured to be read from 2.5 feet (0.76 m) to 15feet (4.57 m), from 4 feet (1.21 m) to 12 feet (3.67 m), and from 6 feet(1.82 m) to 10 feet (3.048 m). in the range of 750 to 1050 MHz, and morepreferably in the range of 865 to 928 mHz while operatively connected tothe RFID module. In certain aspects, the antenna configuration is drivenby the tuning requirements of the RF technology used within thedisclosed label(s), and the material the antenna will be exposed to(detuned by), for example specific type of rubber, with certain contentof carbon black, with additional materials like steel or Kevlar belts.For example a tagging solution for passive UHF RFID on tires will havethe antenna optimized for resonance frequency in the 865-928 MHz rangeafter taking into account the detuning effects or specific rubber,carbon, and other materials.

In certain aspects, the flexible, metal antenna is comprised ofstainless steel (e.g., braided stainless steel) with a minimum tensilestrength of 2.8 kgf load up to 7.25 kgf load, and more preferably with aminimum tensile strength of 5.8 kgf load and up to 7.25 kgf load.

In certain aspects, the chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tirelabel further includes a removable liner temporarily adhered to the meshface layer that is configured for removal upon application of the labelto an unvulcanized article (unvulcanized tire).

In certain aspects, the grids within each of mesh face and mesh backinglayers are aligned with one another allowing for greater flow anddispersion of green rubber material through and around the label duringtire vulcanization and less overall label rigidity than a label havingmesh face and mesh backing layers with offset grids.

In certain aspects, grids within each of mesh face and mesh backinglayers are offset relative to one another to increase overall labelrigidity when compared with a same label having mesh face and meshbacking layers with aligned grids.

Also disclosed herein are methods for forming vulcanized articles (e.g.,tire(s)) having the above disclosed chemically treated, RFID equippedmesh label integrally incorporated therein, the method comprises: (a)attaching the chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh label on outersurface of a green tire; (b) placing the green tire with the chemicallytreated, RFID equipped mesh label attached thereon into a tire mold; (c)subjecting the green tire of step (b) to vulcanization conditions; (d)while vulcanizing the green tire of step (c), passing green rubbermaterial from the green tire through a mesh face layer of the RFID meshlabel in a direction towards the mesh backing layer of the RFID meshlabel while concurrently migrating the chemically treated, RFID equippedmesh label in an internal direction of the green tire; and (e)concluding vulcanization thereby forming a vulcanized tire having thechemically treated, RFID equipped mesh label completely embedded andinternally positioned (integrated) within the vulcanized tire that isnot visible on an outer surface of the tire such that: (i) thechemically treated, RFID equipped mesh label is permanently bonded tointernal portions of the vulcanized tire, and (ii) the RFID devicewithin the chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh label can be read froma predetermined distance by a RFID reader.

In certain aspects, the RFID mesh label is integrally incorporated on atire sidewall or a tire bead.

In certain aspects, also disclosed is a vulcanized tire including theabove discussed chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh label integrallyincorporated in and completely embedded within the vulcanized tire, thelabel configured to provide unique identifier(s) and/or otherinformation about the tire.

Embodiments of the invention can include one or more or any combinationof the above features and configurations.

Additional features, aspects and advantages of the invention will be setforth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will bereadily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description orrecognized by practicing the invention as described herein. It is to beunderstood that both the foregoing general description and the followingdetailed description present various embodiments of the invention, andare intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding thenature and character of the invention as it is claimed. The accompanyingdrawings are included to provide a further understanding of theinvention, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of thisspecification.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention are better understood when the following detailed descriptionof the invention is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, inwhich:

FIG. 1 shows a conventional RFID coil tag device;

FIG. 2 shows a conventional label including the conventional RFID coiltag device of FIG. 1 therein;

FIG. 3(a) is a top view of a conventional RFID equipped bar coded label,and FIG. 3(b) is a bottom view of the conventional RFID equipped barcoded label further showing the etched RFID device included therein;

FIG. 4(a) is an exemplary depiction of a tire cross-section showing theportion of the tire inner wall on which an RFID label is affixed to, andFIG. 4(b) is a perspective view of a tire cross-section showing theportion of the tire inner wall on which an RFID label is affixed to;

FIG. 5 is an exemplary depiction of the layered stack included withinthe chemically treated RFID mesh label disclosed herein;

FIG. 6 is an exemplary depiction of the RFID device used within thechemically treated RFID mesh label disclosed herein;

FIG. 7(a) and FIG. 7(b) each show bottom views of the chemically treatedRFID mesh label disclosed herein having a releasable liner adheredthereon;

FIG. 8 is top perspective view of the chemically treated RFID mesh labelshown in FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b);

FIG. 9(a) and FIG. 9(b) each show the releasable liner adhered to andbeing partially removed from the chemically treated RFID mesh label;

FIG. 10 shows the releasable liner being completely removed from thechemically treated RFID mesh label with the chemically treated RFID meshlabel being adhered to an unvulcanized tire;

FIGS. 11(a), 11(b), 11(c), and 11(d) sequentially depict the chemicallytreated, RFID equipped mesh label being provided/attached to a greentire and migrating/descending towards an internal depth (D¹) within thetire during vulcanization such that the mesh label is integrally bondedwith the vulcanized tire;

FIG. 12(a) shows the chemically treated RFID mesh label integrallypositioned within a vulcanized tire, and FIG. 12(b) further shows theposition of the chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh label within avulcanized tire;

FIG. 13 depicts steps S1-S5 associated with the method of integrallyincorporating/positioning the chemically treated, RFID equipped meshlabel(s) disclosed herein within a vulcanized tire; and

FIGS. 14(a) and 14(b) schematically depict the mesh face layer and meshbacking layer each having an orthogonal grid and distorted grid pre andpost-tire vulcanization respectively.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings in which exemplary embodiments ofthe invention are shown. However, the invention may be embodied in manydifferent forms/articles and should not be construed as limited to therepresentative embodiments set forth herein. The exemplary embodimentsare provided so that this disclosure will be both thorough and complete,and will fully convey the scope of the invention and enable one ofordinary skill in the art to make, use and practice the invention. Likereference numbers refer to like elements throughout the variousdrawings.

Chemically Treated, RFID Equipped Mesh Label(s) (Overall Construct)

The chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh labels 200 (as shown in FIGS.5 and 7(a)-11(d)) according to the present invention enable various tiretracking solutions that include electronic identification provisionssuch as, for example, RFID devices incorporated in the labels areconfigured to withstand pressures, temperatures and stresses (e.g.,mechanical and chemical) associated with manufacturing (e.g., tirevulcanization) and a wide variety of use of tires and other rubberproducts while concurrently maintaining operability during theseprocesses, after these processes, and throughout the lifetime of thearticle thereby sensing and providing unique identifier(s) and/or otherinformation about the article during distribution, inventory, andarticle lifetime.

As disclosed further below, the chemically treated, RFID equipped meshlabel are incorporated within the sidewall and/or the bead of a widearray of vulcanized tires. Depending on the type of tire, the stretch ofthe tire (sidewall) or the use of the tire (e.g. racing tires), thethickness and surface area of the different label materials may vary.

As will be appreciated, tires are typically used in combination withrims of a vehicle. The rubber-based tire provides support and grippingfor the vehicle with a road or ground surface. The chemically treated,RFID equipped mesh label may be used with bias tires, belted bias tires,radial tires, solid tires, semi-pneumatic tires, pneumatic tires,airless tires, truck and bus tires, airplane tires, agro tires, racingtires, and/or other rubber articles such as valves, mats, conveyorbelts, airsprings, etc.

In certain embodiments the label can withstand conditions typicallyassociated with vulcanization processes without degradation. The termvulcanization as used herein generally refers to heating an unvulcanizedarticle to a temperature greater than 90° C., and up to 200° C., for apredetermined time period, for example, at least 10 minutes up toseveral hours and further subject the article to high pressures topromote crosslinking within, for example, a rubber matrix to form avulcanized article.

With specific reference to FIGS. 5-9(b), disclosed herein are chemicallytreated, RFID equipped mesh tire labels 200 that maintain operabilityduring vulcanization and post-vulcanization of a tire. These labels 200,and more particularly the RFID device 110 positioned therein, retainRFID performance/readability allowing the label to be advantageouslyutilized, read, and/or identified throughout the tire manufacturingprocess (e.g., vulcanization), while in the supply chain, and the tire'slifetime. The durability of the RF module 111 (shown in FIG. 6) withinthe RFID device 110 coupled with the dimensional stability of theflexible, metal antenna 112, 113 assists in maintaining the structuralintegrity of the entire inlay to avoid degradation of RFID performancein addition to its ability to survive curing/vulcanization temperaturesof 150°+ Celsius.

In addition to the robustness of the RFID device/inlay 110, the presentchemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire labels 200 are distinguishedfrom prior art by the layers and order of materials, as shown forexample in FIG. 5, that make up the entire label construct. The belowdiscussed labels advantageously overcome the many shortcomings of priorart and/or prior technologies by having, for example, no line of sightrequirements/limitations, multiple tires can be identifiedsimultaneously within field of reading, the label is not visibly seen onthe exterior of the tire; asset tracking will occur without concern ofhuman removal/intervention, and/or the survivability of theself-contained RFID module allows the tire or rubber article to beidentified at a short read distance even after extreme stress has beenexerted on the tire (such as a catastrophic tire failure) and the longerread range performance of the RFID antenna has been compromised.

The chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label 200 depicted inFIGS. 5 and 7(a)-12(b) are configured to be integrally incorporatedwithin a vulcanized tire and to provide unique identifier(s) and/orother information about the vulcanized tire during and post tirevulcanization. As shown, for example in FIG. 5, the label 200 includes amesh face layer 210 configured to be adhered to an outer surface of anunvulcanized tire; a mesh backing layer 220 attached/adhered to the meshface layer and adapted to be integrally incorporated in a vulcanizedtire after subjecting a green tire to a vulcanization process; and anRFID device 110 positioned and securely affixed between the mesh faceand mesh backing layers. The RFID device that is configured to provideunique identifier(s) and/or other information associated with the tire,which can read with an RFID reader during and post tire vulcanizationwhen within operable proximity of the label. As further shown in FIGS.8, 9(a), and 9(b), the chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label200 further includes a removable liner 250 temporarily adhered to themesh face layer by an adhesive (discussed further below) that, as shownin FIGS. 9(a) and 9(b), is configured for removal upon application ofthe label to the desired article (e.g., an unvulcanized tire).

Mesh Face Layer And Mesh Backing Layer

In certain aspects and in view of FIGS. 5, 7(a), 7(b), 9(a) and 9(b),both the mesh face layer 210 and mesh backing layer 220 compriseflexible, orthogonal grids that are semi-deformable during thevulcanization process, but further maintain overall structural integrityof the label 200 during and post-vulcanization of the tire. In view ofFIG. 14(b) when compared to FIG. 14(a), the phrase “semi-deformablegrid” means maintaining a grid-shaped resemblance post-vulcanizationwith some warping or deformation of the overall, original orthogonalgrid shape structure(s) (shown in FIG. 14(a)) occurring duringvulcanization. In general, the mesh face layer 210 and mesh backinglayer 220 are somewhat flexible and have slight play in their gridstructures to further facilitate complete label integration within thetire during vulcanization and allow for unencumbered passage ofunvulcanized material through the label during vulcanization and, unlikethe prior art devices of FIG. 1, to further reduce and/or preventdeformations such as microbubble and macrobubble formation fromoccurring. The grids disclosed herein are included in each of the meshface layer 210 and mesh backing layer 220 and preferably have aplurality of interconnected square and/or rectangular shape(s) that formthe grid with an overall grid density of 15 to 25 squares/rectangles persquare centimeter and more preferably 18 to 22 squares/rectangle persquare centimeter. When the grid density is above 25 squares/rectanglesper square centimeter (in the mesh face layer 210 and mesh backing layer220), flow of unvulcanized material through the labels disadvantageouslybecomes encumbered/impeded by the grid(s), thus resulting in microbubbleand/or macrobubble formation, microwarping, and/or delamination when alabel (having greater than 25 squares/rectangles per square centimeter)is included in a vulcanized tire/during vulcanization. When grid densityis less than 15 squares/rectangles per square centimeter (in the meshface layer 210 and mesh backing layer 220), the overall structuralintegrity of the label is compromised (e.g., resulting in warping of themesh layers and/or warping/bending of the disclosed antenna(s) in anundesired manner), thus leading to variable and inconsistent resultswhen the labels having a grid density of less than 15 squares/rectanglesper square centimeter are integrated within a tire during and/orpost-vulcanization.

In view of FIGS. 5, 7(a), 7(b), 9(a) and 9(b), The mesh face layer 210and mesh backing layer 220 are each formed from a woven or non-wovenmaterial, the woven or non-woven material being formed of a polyamide(e.g., an aliphatic or semi-aromatic polyamide), polyester,polyethylene, polypropylene, or cotton. In certain preferred aspects,mesh face layer 210 and mesh backing layer 220 each are formed of nylon,and in the most preferred aspects, the mesh face layer 210 and meshbacking layer 220 are each formed from nylon 6.6 (e.g., Milliken Nylon6.6). In the most preferred aspects, mesh face layer 210 and meshbacking layer 220 each are formed of a woven material in which the wovenmaterial is nylon 6.6 (e.g., Milliken Nylon 6.6).

To further facilitate integration of the label 200 within a tire duringvulcanization, at least one of the mesh face layer 210 and/or meshbacking layer 220 is chemically treated completely on its outersurface(s) with functionalized latex to facilitate bonding of the labelto a tire during vulcanization, which may occur by dip coating or spraycoating the mesh face layer 210 and/or mesh backing layer 220 within asolution containing the functionalized latex. In certain preferredaspects, both the mesh face 210 and mesh backing 220 layers arechemically treated on its outer surface(s) with functionalized latex tofurther facilitate bonding of the label to a tire during vulcanization.In certain aspects, the functionalized latex comprises reactive thiolgroups, reactive hydroxyl groups, reactive aldehyde groups, or anycombination thereon that facilitate crosslinking between a tire and themesh face layer and the mesh backing layer during vulcanization tointegrally incorporate the label within a vulcanized tire. In preferredembodiments, the functionalized latex includes reactive aldehyde groups,and in most preferred embodiments, the functionalized latex isresorcinol formaldehyde latex. The functionalized latex(es) disclosedabove are particularly preferred due to the observed overall reductionand/or prevention of deformations (e.g., microbubble and macrobubbleformation and/or warping) occurring within a vulcanized tire when usinglabels 200 having a mesh face layer 210 and/or mesh backing layer 220coated with functionalized latex(es). Also in view of the above, thefunctionalized latex comprises a reactive group(s) that facilitatescovalent bonding between a tire and the mesh face layer and the meshbacking layer during vulcanization to integrally incorporate the labelwithin a vulcanized tire.

In view of FIGS. 5, 7(a), 7(b), 9(a) and 9(b), both the mesh face layer210 and mesh backing layer 220 are planar and are adhered to one anotherat least along their end portions and/or peripheral edges, as well asother portions of each layer 210, 220. For example, as shown in theschematic of FIG. 5, in certain aspects, the mesh face layer 210comprises an upper surface 211 and a lower surface 212 that are eachcoated with an adhesive 230, 240. The adhesive coating the upper surface211 of the mesh face layer 210 is adapted to temporarily adhere to thereleasable liner 250 and/or adhere the label 200 to an outer surface ofthe green tire (unvulcanized tire) during vulcanization while theadhesive coating the lower surface 212 of the mesh face layer 210preferably permanently bonds/adheres the mesh face layer 210 to amajority of the upper portion(s) of the mesh backing layer 220 andfurther includes the RFID device permanently securely positioned/adheredtherein.

In certain aspects, the adhesive on the upper surface 211 of the meshface layer 210 is configured to adhere the label to a tire outer surfacepre-vulcanization and the adhesive on the lower surface 212 of the meshface layer adheres to the meshing backing layer 220 and affixes the RFIDdevice 110 therein. The adhesive is either transparent or translucent.The adhesive is a continuous layer/coating 230 coated on the uppersurface 211 of the mesh face layer and on the lower surface 212 of themesh face layer. In certain aspects, each adhesive layer/coating 230,240 ranges from 1.25 thousands of an inch (mils) (0.03175 mm) to 2 mils(0.0508 mm) in thickness and is more preferably 1.45 mils (0.0368 mm) to1.55 mils (0.03937 mm) in thickness In the most preferred aspects, eachadhesive layer/coating is about 1.5 mils (0.0381 mm) in thickness. Wheneach adhesive layer/coating 230, 240 is less than 1.25 mils, the overalltackifying properties/characteristics of the label are affected, leadingto inconsistent adhesion to the releasable liner 250 and/or unvulcanizedtire and decreased label structural integrity due to potentialdetachment/delamination between the mesh face layer 210 and the meshbacking layer 220. When each adhesive layer/coating 230, 240 exceeds 2mils, structural integrity of the label is also affected due toincreased adhesive fluidity and weeping/oozing from the label. Incertain aspects, the adhesive disclosed herein preferably includesrubber latex and/or a rosin, more particularly a rosin ester or a rosinester tackifier (e.g., a Snowtack® Tackifier Dispersion/resin) thatreadily adheres the label(s) to and maintains the label on theunvulcanized articles (e.g., tires) at least during the initial stagesof vulcanization.

During vulcanization, the mesh face layer 210 and mesh backing layer 220are each configured to pass and disperse green rubber material from anunvulcanized tire therethrough such that the label is integrally bondedwithin the tire post-vulcanization. In preferred embodiment, the meshface layer 210 and mesh backing layer 220 are configured tohomogeneously pass and disperse green rubber material from anunvulcanized tire through and around the label during vulcanizationthereby further minimizing and/or preventing microbubble and/ormacrobubble formation during tire vulcanization.

It should be further noted that overall label 200 rigidity may beslightly modified/adjusted by varying grid alignment(s) of the mesh facelayer 210 and mesh backing layer 220 relative to one another.Specifically, as shown in, for example, FIGS. 7(a) and in certainaspects, the grids within each of mesh face 210 and mesh backing 220layers are aligned (or substantially aligned) with one another allowingfor greater flow and dispersion of green rubber material through andaround the label 200 during tire vulcanization. The alignment shown inFIG. 7(a) results in less overall label rigidity than a label havingmesh face and mesh backing layers with offset grids (e.g., shown inFIGS. 7(b) and 9(a)). However, in view of the above and in certainalternative aspects, a label with increased rigidity is desire, and asshown in, for example, FIGS. 7(b) and 9(a), grids within each of meshface 210 and mesh backing 220 layers are offset relative to one anotherto increase overall label rigidity when compared with a same labelhaving mesh face and mesh backing layers with aligned grids.

RFID Device Incorporated Within Chemically Treated, RFID Equipped MeshLabel(s)

In certain aspects and in view of FIG. 6, the RFID device 110 disclosedherein includes an RFID module 111 and a flexible, conductive antenna(e.g., a flexible, metal antenna) 112, 113 extending away from the RFIDmodule. This RFID device 110 configuration is particularly advantageousin view of conventional RFID devices because the RFID module 111 isconfigured to continuously maintain operability regardless of whetherthe flexible, metal antenna remains attached/coupled to or becomesdetached/decoupled from the RFID module during tire vulcanization. Morespecifically, the RFID module is configured with passive UHFcapabilities (discussed further below) having an integrated circuit witha built-in antenna that can be read with an appropriate RFID reader andcontinuously maintain operability regardless of whether the flexible,conductive antenna (flexible, metal antenna) remains looped (inductivelycoupled) around the RF Module during tire vulcanization or the life ofthe tire. For example, the RFID module can preferably be read in the“near field” range of 2 inches (5.08 cm) to 6 inches (15.24 cm)regardless of whether the flexible, conductive antenna (flexible, metalantenna) remains inductively coupled to the RFID module.

In certain aspects, the flexible conductive antenna and/or flexiblemetal antenna 112, 113 boosts the overall read distance of the meshlabels disclosed herein. The flexible, conductive antenna(s) andflexible, metal antenna(s) are wrapped around/inductively coupled to theRFID module and have an overall linear length ranging from 3.5 inches(8.89 cm) to 7.5 inches (19.05 cm); 5 inches (12.7 cm) to 7 inches 17.78cm) and diameter ranging from 0.25 mm to 0.45, and more preferably from0.29 mm to 0.41 mm. The overall read range of the above mentionedantenna(s) having a linear length/linear confirmation if from 2.5 feet(0.76 m) to 15 feet (4.57 m), from 4 feet (1.21 m) to 12 feet (3.67 m),and from 6 feet (1.82 m) to 10 feet (3.048 m), but this read range maybe tuned/varied as desired by varying overall antenna length and/orlooping/wrapping/folding the antenna to reduce overall antenna lengthalong the longitudinal axis of the label. In certain aspects, theflexible conductive antenna and/or flexible metal antenna 112, 113 areformed from metal yarn(s) or metal rope that are configured to be readwhile operatively connected to the RFID module at the distancesdiscussed immediately above. The RFID module may be, for example, the“Ultra Small Package Tag” manufactured by Hitachi Chemical. In certainaspects, the flexible conductive antenna(s) and the flexible, metalantennas 112, 113 are configured to be read from 2.5 feet (0.76 m) to 15feet (4.57 m), from 4 feet (1.21 m) to 12 feet (3.67 m), and from 6 feet(1.82 m) to 10 feet (3.048 m) in the range of 750 to 1050 MHz, and morepreferably in the range of 865 to 928 mHz while operatively connected tothe RFID module. In certain aspects, the antenna configuration is drivenby the tuning requirements of the RF technology used within thedisclosed label(s), and the material the antenna will be exposed to(detuned by), for example specific type of rubber, with certain contentof carbon black, with additional materials like steel or Kevlar belts.For example a tagging solution for passive UHF RFID on tires will havethe antenna optimized for resonance frequency in the 865-928 MHz rangeafter taking into account the detuning effects or specific rubber,carbon, and other material(s). The flexible, metal antenna is comprisedof stainless steel (and more particularly a braided stainless steel)with a tensile strength ranging from 2.8 kgf load to 7.25 kgf load, andmore preferably from 5.8 kgf load to 7.25 kgf load. In certain aspects,the braided stainless steel antenna is a “Type C generation 2 wire” fromSES RFID Solutions Gmbh.

In view of the above, conventional RFID devices generally includes anantenna for wirelessly transmitting and/or receiving RF signals andanalog and/or digital electronics operatively connected thereto.Commonly, the electronics are implemented via an integrated circuit (IC)or microchip or other suitable electronic circuit and may include, e.g.,communications electronics, data memory, control logic, etc.

To further distinguish from conventional devices such as those shown inFIG. 1, the antenna 112, 113 material of RFID device 110 is stainlesssteel and more preferably comprised of braided stainless steel ratherthan copper or aluminum etched onto the surface of another material. Thebraided stainless steel having a tensile strength of 2.8 kgf load. Inview of conventional devices, antennas 112, 113 formed of braidedstainless steel withstand high temperatures associated withvulcanization and further resists damage from abrasion occurring, forexample, during the use of the vulcanized tire. Braided stainless steelfurther has a very high tensile strength and can withstand the constantflexing resulting from constant tire revolution(s) while the tire is inuse. Antennas 112, 113 formed of braided stainless steel material havebeen shown to operably endure even under extreme wheel testingconditions and further do not disassociate from the RFID module 111 whencompared to conventional devices such as the RFID device 10 shown inFIG. 1.

Regarding the RFID module 111 depicted in FIGS. 6, 7(a), 7(b) and11(a)-11(d), the RF module is preferably a small, passive ultra-highfrequency (UHF) device with its own built-in antenna (i.e., acting as aprimary antenna for RFID device 110). The module 111 is a self-containedtag that can be read by an RFID reader at 2 inches (5.08 cm) to 6 inches(15.24 cm) and is manufactured to withstand extremely harsh environments(e.g., vulcanization and constant flexing, expansion, and contract ofvulcanized tires). As discussed above, in certain aspects, the antenna112, 113 braided stainless steel antenna is looped multiple times(inductively coupled) around the module 111 and extends away from the RFmodule, thereby functioning as a secondary dipole antenna. This overallRFID device 110 configuration has an average read range of 2 meters whenthe label 200 is incorporated within a vulcanized wheel and furtherexhibits this read range even after significant road wheel tests. Also,as previously discussed above and if for some reason, the antenna 112,113, (braided stainless antenna) that ‘boosts’ the read rangeperformance of the RF module 111 is compromised, the RF module can stillbe read by an RFID reader (inductive coupling) at a very close distance(as discussed above).

RFID devices often operate in one of a variety of frequency rangesincluding, e.g., a low frequency (LF) range (i.e,, from approximately 30kHz to approximately 300 kHz), a high frequency (HF) range (i.e, fromapproximately 3 MHz to approximately 30 MHz) and an ultra-high frequency(UHF) range (i.e., from approximately 300 MHz to approximately 3 GHz). Apassive device will commonly operate in any one of the aforementionedfrequency ranges. In particular, for passive devices: LF systemscommonly operate at around 124 kHz, 125 kHz or 135 kHz; HF systemscommonly operate at around 13.56 MHz; and, UHF systems commonly use aband anywhere from 860 MHz to 960 MHz. Alternately, some passive devicesystems also use 2.45 GHz and other areas of the radio spectrum. ActiveRFID devices typically operate at around 455 MHz, 2.45 GI/4z, or 5.8GHz. Often, semi-passive devices use a frequency around 2.4 GHz.

The read range of an RFID device (i.e., the range at which the RFIDreader can communicate with the RFID device) is generally determined bymany factors, e.g., the type of device (i.e., active, passive, etc.).Typically, passive LF RFID devices (also referred to as LFID or LowFIDdevices) can usually be read from within approximately 12 inches (0.33meters); passive HF RFID devices (also referred to as HFID or HighFIDdevices) can usually be read from up to approximately 3 feet (1 meter);and passive UHF RFID devices (also referred to as UHFID devices) can betypically read from approximately 10 feet (3.05 meters) or more. Oneimportant factor influencing the read range for passive RFID devices isthe method used to transmit data from the device to the reader, i.e.,the coupling mode between the device and the reader which can typicallybe either inductive coupling or radiative/propagation coupling. PassiveLFID devices and passive HFID devices commonly use inductive couplingbetween the device and the reader, whereas passive UHFID devicescommonly use radiative or propagation coupling between the device andthe reader.

Alternatively, in radiative or propagation coupling applications (e.g.,as are conventionally used by passive UHFID devices), rather thanforming an electromagnetic field between the respective antennas of thereader and device, the reader emits electromagnetic energy whichactivates or energizes the device. In turn, the device gathers theenergy from the reader via its antenna, and the device's IC or microchipuses the gathered energy to change the load on the device antenna andreflect back an altered signal, i.e., backscatter. Commonly, UHFIDdevices can communicate data in a variety of different ways, e.g., theycan increase the amplitude of the reflected wave sent back to the reader(i.e., amplitude shift keying), shift the reflected wave so it is out ofphase received wave (i.e., phase shift keying) or change the frequencyof the reflected wave (i.e., frequency shift keying). In any event, thereader picks up the backscattered signal and converts the altered waveinto data that is understood by the reader or adjunct computer.

Vulcanized Tire Having The Chemically Treated, RFID Equipped Mesh TireLabel Incorporated Therein And Method Of Forming The Same

Disclosed herein are vulcanized tires 400 (FIGS. 11(d), 12(a), and12(b)) having the chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire labels 200incorporated therein as well as methods of forming the same. Inparticular, FIGS. 11(a)-11(d) sequentially depict the chemicallytreated, RFID equipped mesh tire label 200 being provided andsubsequently attached/adhered to a green/unvulcanized tire 300 (and moreparticularly to a tire bead 303) and subsequently migrating/descendingtowards an internal depth (D¹) within inner portion(s) of the tireduring vulcanization such that the chemically treated, RFID equippedmesh tire label 200 is integrally formed/incorporated within thevulcanized tire 400 (formed from vulcanization of the green tire) duringthis process, and FIG. 13 further depicts the sequential steps S1-S5 ofintegrally incorporating/forming the chemically treated, RFID equippedmesh label(s) 200 disclosed herein within a vulcanized tire 400. Itshould be further noted that “TS” (transmitted signal) along with thelines radiating away from label 200, as shown in FIGS. 11(a)-11(d),12(a), and 12(b)) are exemplary depictions of a signal transmitted fromthe RFID module 111 and/or antenna 112, 113, which can be detected/readby an RFID reader.

With specific reference to FIG. 11(a) and step S1 in FIG. 13, thechemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label 200 is initiallyprovided. Next, as shown sequentially in FIGS. 11(b) and 11(c), theouter surface of the mesh face layer 210 having adhesive 230 coatedthereon is advanced towards and adhered/attached to an outermost surfaceof a green rubber article/green tire 300 (e.g., bead label ofunvulcanized tire 303). The arrows extending downward from the label 200towards the green tire 300 and arrows extending upward from the greentire 300 indicate the direction(s) in which the label 200 is advanced toadhere/attach the label onto the outermost surface of a green rubberarticle/green tire 300.

Next and as further detailed in step S2 of FIG. 13 and in view of FIGS.11(b) and 11(c), the green tire 300 having the label 200adhered/attached thereto is placed into a tire mold for subsequentvulcanization in which the green tire 300 and mesh label 200 aresubjected to temperatures and pressures associated with vulcanizationprocesses to vulcanize the green tire while in the mold.

When initially subjected to temperatures and pressures associated withvulcanization processes while vulcanizing the green tire 300 and asfurther shown in FIG. 11(c), the mesh label 200 advances in a directiontowards an inner portion of the green tire 300. As further shown inFIGS. 11(c) in further view of step S3 in FIG. 13, while vulcanizing thegreen tire 300, the mesh face layer 210 passes green rubber materialfrom the green tire 300 therethrough (indicated as arrows extendingupward in a direction extending from inside/inner portions the greentire 300 towards the mesh backing layer 220) such that the entire label200 (i.e., mesh face layer 210, mesh backing layer 220, and RFID device110) concurrently migrates/descends towards internal depth D¹ of aninner portion of the green tire 300.

In view of steps S4 and S5 of FIG. 13 and FIGS. 11(c)-11(d),vulcanization is continued for a predetermined time period such that theentire chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh label 200 continues tomigrate/descend towards internal depth D¹ of tire while passing rubbermaterial therethrough such that the mesh face layer 210, mesh backinglayer 220, and the RFID device 110 positioned there between bond (e.g.,crosslink) to the tire during vulcanization. With specific reference tostep S5 of FIG. 13 and in further view of FIG. 11(d), vulcanization issubsequently concluded thereby forming the vulcanized tire 400 havingthe entire label 200 embedded therein and positioned at an internaldepth D¹ completely within an inner portion of the vulcanized tire 400and such that the mesh label 200 is permanently bonded to/integrallyincorporated in the vulcanized tire 400. As further shown in FIGS.11(d), 12(a) and 12(b), because the label 200 is completely embeddedwithin the vulcanized tire 400, the label 400 is not readily visiblewhen one views the vulcanized tire 400 but is instead completelyconcealed within the vulcanized tire 400 by vulcanized rubber

In certain aspects and instead of steps S3-S4 (i.e., mesh labeldescending to a specific inner depth of the green tire) as shown in FIG.13, the mesh label 200 remains at and/or near the surface of an outersurface of the tire (e.g., tire inner wall). The mesh face layer 210 andmesh backing layer 220 facilitates the rubber flow and allows, forexample, the sulfur atoms (and/or thiol groups) to crosslink the naturalrubber through and around the label versus the mesh passing down throughthe natural rubber.

It should be further noted that in certain aspects, the labels 200disclosed herein may be included in vulcanized articles as well. Forexample, the labels can also be positioned in and/or on a retread trucktire and operate in substantially the same manner as discussed above.

The foregoing description provides embodiments of the invention by wayof example only. It is envisioned that other embodiments may performsimilar functions and/or achieve similar results. Any and all suchequivalent embodiments and examples are within the scope of the presentinvention and are intended to be covered by the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tirelabel configured to be integrally incorporated within a vulcanized tireand to provide unique identifier(s) and/or other information about thevulcanized tire during and post tire vulcanization, the labelcomprising: a mesh face layer configured to be adhered to an outersurface of an unvulcanized tire; a mesh backing layer attached to themesh face layer and adapted to be integrally incorporated in avulcanized tire after subjecting a green tire to a vulcanizationprocess; and an RFID device affixed between the mesh face and meshbacking layers, the RFID device that is configured to provide uniqueidentifier(s) and/or other information upon being read with an RFIDreader during and post tire vulcanization.
 2. The chemically treated,RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 1, wherein, during vulcanization,the mesh face layer and mesh backing layers are each configured to passand disperse green rubber material from an unvulcanized tiretherethrough such that the label is integrally bonded within the tirepost-vulcanization.
 3. The chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tirelabel of claim 1, wherein the mesh face layer and mesh backing layer areconfigured to homogeneously pass and disperse green rubber material froman unvulcanized tire through and around the label during vulcanizationto minimize and/or prevent microbubble and/or macrobubble formationand/or delamination during tire vulcanization.
 4. The chemicallytreated, RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 1, wherein at least oneof the mesh face and mesh backing layers is chemically treated on itsouter surface(s) with a functionalized latex to facilitate bonding ofthe label to a tire during vulcanization.
 5. The chemically treated,RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 1, wherein both the mesh face andmesh backing layers are chemically treated on its outer surface(s) witha functionalized latex to further facilitate bonding of the label to atire during vulcanization.
 6. The chemically treated, RFID equipped meshtire label of claim 5, wherein the functionalized latex comprisesreactive thiol groups, reactive hydroxyl groups, reactive aldehydegroups, or any combination thereon that facilitate crosslinking betweena tire and the mesh face layer and the mesh backing layer duringvulcanization to integrally incorporate the label within a vulcanizedtire.
 7. The chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim6, wherein the functionalized latex is resorcinol formaldehyde latex. 8.The chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 1,wherein the both the mesh face and mesh backing layers are planar andare adhered to one another.
 9. The chemically treated, RFID equippedmesh tire label of claim 1, wherein the mesh face layer comprises anupper surface and a lower surface that are each coated with an adhesive.10. The chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 9,wherein the adhesive on the upper surface of the mesh face layer isconfigured to adhere the label to a tire outer surface pre-vulcanizationand the adhesive on the lower surface of the mesh face layer adheres tothe meshing backing layer and affixes the RFID device therein.
 11. Thechemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 10, whereinthe adhesive is a continuous layer on the upper surface of the mesh facelayer and on the lower surface of the mesh face layer.
 12. Thechemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 9, whereinthe adhesive is a rubber latex adhesive.
 13. The chemically treated,RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 11, wherein each continuous layeris 1.25 thousands of an inch (mils) to 2 mils in thickness on the meshface layer.
 14. The chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label ofclaim 1, wherein the RFID device comprises and RFID module and aflexible, metal antenna extending from the RFID module.
 15. Thechemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 14, whereinthe RFID module has passive UHF capabilities with an integrated circuitwith a built-in antenna that can be read with an RFID reader and theRFID module is configured to maintain operability regardless of whetherthe flexible, metal antenna remains attached to or becomes detached fromthe RFID module during tire vulcanization.
 16. The chemically treated,RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 14, wherein the flexible, metalantenna comprises metal yarn(s) or a metal rope wrapped around andoperatively connected to the RFID module.
 17. The chemically treated,RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 14, wherein the flexible, metalantenna is configured to transmit and/or be read at a distance of from2.5 feet to 15 feet while operatively connected to the RFID module. 18.The chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 16,wherein the flexible, metal antenna is comprised of stainless steel. 19.The chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 1,further comprising a removable liner temporarily adhered to the meshface layer that is configured for removal upon application of the label.20. The chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 1,wherein grids within each of mesh face and mesh backing layers arealigned with one another allowing for greater through and dispersion ofgreen rubber material through and around the label during tirevulcanization and less overall label rigidity than a label having meshface and mesh backing layers with offset grids.
 21. The chemicallytreated, RFID equipped mesh tire label of claim 1, wherein grids withineach of mesh face and mesh backing layers are offset relative to oneanother to increase overall label rigidity when compared with a samelabel having mesh face and mesh backing layers with aligned grids.
 22. Amethod for forming vulcanized tire(s) having the chemically treated,RFID equipped mesh label of claim 1 integrally incorporated therein, themethod comprising: (a) attaching the chemically treated, RFID equippedmesh label on outer surface of a green tire; (b) placing the green tirewith the chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh label attached thereoninto a tire mold; (c) subjecting the green tire of step (b) tovulcanization conditions; (d) while vulcanizing the green tire of step(c), passing green rubber material from the green tire through a meshface layer of the RFID mesh label in a direction towards the meshbacking layer of the RFID mesh label while concurrently migrating thechemically treated, RFID equipped mesh label in an internal direction ofthe green tire; and (e) concluding vulcanization thereby forming avulcanized tire having the chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh labelcompletely embedded and internally positioned within the vulcanized tirethat is not visible on an outer surface of the tire such that: (i) thechemically treated, RFID equipped mesh label is permanently bonded tointernal portions of the vulcanized tire, and (ii) the RFID devicewithin the chemically treated, RFID equipped mesh label can be read froma predetermined distance by a RFID reader.
 23. The method of claim 22,wherein the RFID mesh label is integrally incorporated on a tiresidewall or a tire bead.
 24. A vulcanized tire comprising: thechemically treated, RFID equipped mesh label of claim 1 integrallyincorporated in and completely embedded within the vulcanized tire, thelabel configured to provide unique identifier(s) and/or otherinformation about the tire.
 25. The chemically treated, RFID equippedmesh tire label of claim 5, wherein the functionalized latex comprises areactive group that facilitates covalent bonding between a tire and themesh face layer and the mesh backing layer during vulcanization tointegrally incorporate the label within a vulcanized tire.